Showing results by author "Anna Cora Mowatt Ritchie" in All Categories

In the opulent world of 1850s France, Madelaine is the underappreciated cousin of the esteemed de Gramont family. Though adored by the enchanting Bertha and secretly loved by the dashing Maurice, she is little more than an inconvenience to the proud old countess. When her uncles devious plans create a deep divide within the family, Madelaine must harness her extraordinary talent as a seamstress, transforming into the sought-after couturier “Mademoiselle Melanie” in Washington, D.C. With her newfound success, she seizes the chance to rescue the financially struggling de Gramonts. - Summary ...

Though largely forgotten today, this romantic melodrama was a significant triumph for actress and playwright Anna Cora Mowatt, even outshining her groundbreaking comedy Fashion (1845). Capitalizing on the fervor surrounding the characters and settings popularized by Alexander Dumas’ Musketeer novels, this captivating drama follows the enchanting peasant maiden Blanche as she uncovers her potential lineage as the illegitimate daughter of the cunning Duke de Richelieu. Meanwhile, her devoted sweetheart, the noble Armand, must demonstrate his cleverness, bravery, and valor to defend her ...

“Gulzara, The Persian Slave” is a captivating glimpse into a Victorian melodrama crafted for private performance, intended to be acted out by a small group of amateur women in the intimate setting of a home or school. Uniquely penned by a female playwright, this play features a cast of women, with the sole male character, Amurath, portrayed by a young girl in a breeches role. Set against the backdrop of a harem in Constantinople, the narrative weaves a tale of intrigue surrounding the abduction of Sultan Suliman’s son, while also providing a fascinating insight into the lives of young ...

Evelyn is a captivating two-volume novel presented in an epistolary format, weaving together letters from a trusted, unmarried friend of the young, naive heroine and those of a charming yet irresponsible adventurer intent on seducing the beautiful Evelyn. Written by the talented actress, novelist, and playwright Anna Cora Mowatt, this narrative draws inspiration from the works of early feminist author Fredericka Bremer, often referred to as the Swedish Jane Austen. While Mowatts acclaimed comedy Fashion explores the comedic trials of a nouveau riche family navigating New York society in the ...